British Columbia

The science is in: eating chocolate lowers cholesterol and reduces age-related memory loss—hey, we’re not getting any younger. Plus, it releases endorphins that make us feel like we’re falling in love. West Coasters are big on wellness (and love!), so we take these sweets seriously. Vancouver’s cacao connoisseurs craft the finest melt-in-your-mouth magic this side of Willy Wonka’s factory. Ask your chocolatier if these chocolates are right for you. Clockwise from top left: Crave-worthy cocktail chocolates from Beta5. Gourmet ganache-filled chocolate bars from Mink. Mini milk chocolate hedgehogs with creamy hazelnut filling from Purdys. Chic chocolates and truffles from Thomas Haas. Solid dark chocolate medallions with Haida designs, from Chocolate Arts. Beautifully bite-sized chocolate bonbons from Thierry.

Jan. 7 to 12, 2019 What do you get when you combine traditional theatre with 14 live-streaming cameras and huge on-stage projections? The Full Light of Day, a provocative new work by Electric Company Theatre. The company is known for producing innovative shows that also tell a strong story, and this new piece is no exception. A modern allegory, it focuses on a terminally ill woman who takes a huge risk to redeem her family, and it uses larger-than-life projections to smash through the customary limitations of live theatre. Catch this groundbreaking show at the Vancouver Playhouse.

Yoga Ready to get your om on? Mat-toting locals abound in yoga-obsessed Vancouver. At YYoga, say namaste to sleek studios that offer more than a dozen different styles of yoga, 800 classes per week, and (at select studios) infrared sauna. Prefer to mix it up? Spin classes, Pilates, floor barre and more can be found here, too. Semperviva also boasts bright and airy studios around the city, with 10 different styles of yoga on offer. Our advice: salute the sun at the Sea Studio on Granville Island where gorgeous waterfront views can be enjoyed from your mat.(more…)

Across from the Olympic Cauldron, inside the Vancouver Convention Centre’s west building, Lot185 is a West Coast riff on a modern Euro-cafe. Drop by in the morning for excellent coffee and perfect pastries. Or go later for lunch or early dinner. Detail-driven dishes range from tuna poke and smart salads to a plethora of pizzas (we love the funghi bianchi) and decadent desserts. The laid-back setting tempts with cosseting booths or seats at the bar, plus local brews and wines by the glass. And the name? It refers to the land title, purchased in 1862 by three Englishman who were derided for paying too much—for what is now the West End.

To Mar. 31, 2019 In the Museum of Anthropology’s latest exhibit, it’s hard to decide what’s more fascinating: the art or the artists. Marking the Infinite features pieces by nine Aboriginal women, all celebrated artists from remote Australian communities. Each brings her own ancient cultural traditions to her work, but they also connect with larger contemporary themes. Explore the life and work of artists like Wintjiya Napaltjarri (“Women Ceremonies at Watanuma,” pictured). Her bold red shapes and swoops often represent flying-ant eggs and hair-string skirts. Now that’s fascinating.

At Bishop’s, a West Side destination for over 30 years, John Bishop’s namesake room remains the pinnacle of gracious dining. The celebrated chef and author who helped forge BC’s unique regional style serves superbly crafted dishes, such as turnip-and-salmon cake with lobster bisque and caviar; miso-marinated cod with smoked-eggplant-and-mushroom broth; and roast lamb loin with fingerling potatoes, leeks, caper berries and jus. Wines are thoughtfully chosen and well paired. Tranquil and understated, the room is highlighted by local art that suits the mood, while the host’s legendary hospitality is personal, discreet and timeless.

To Mar. 2019 Are your travel wardrobe and carry-on suitcase, well… not a great fit? Then get ready to fall in love with the jet-setting pieces at the Helene Clarkson Pop-Up Shop at Royal Centre. The Toronto-based designer specializes in stylish separates and dresses that are reversible and versatile (think tops with a second neckline when worn back-to-front, and an additional pattern when worn inside-out). Plus, the made-in-Canada collection is wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying and non-fading. Sounds like there’ll be space for souvenirs after all.

To Jan. 27, 2019 For that festive feeling, head to Capilano Suspension Bridge’s Canyon Lights. There, brilliant light displays take hundreds of thousands of twinkling bulbs to new heights—from the glittering bridge to dazzling decked-out Douglas firs, eight of the world’s tallest Christmas trees. To keep the whole family merry and bright, there’s gingerbread decorating, scavenger hunts and sing-along carols. And with partial proceeds supporting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, the real spirit of the season is celebrated, too. Very merry.

To Jan. 31, 2019 Somewhere, over the rainbow, Kristofer Dean finds inspiration for his Crayola-coloured works—or at least that’s what we assume. The Canadian artist’s prismatic acrylic-and-resin paintings have adorned gallery walls and covered the sides of buildings. But regardless of size, his pieces always have an element of play, using light, shadow and perspective to add (or fake) dimension. To see vibrant works like “Refracted Airflow” (pictured), don’t bother chasing rainbows. Instead, visit Ian Tan Gallery for Yes, It’s the Mural.

Most Vancouverites spend years searching for the holy grail of jackets, one that’s fully waterproof but also feels nice against the skin. That’s where the OutDry Ex Stretch Hooded Shell from Columbia comes in. Its outer membrane is both waterproof and durable, while its wicking fabric inside feels soft and comfortable. Try one on at Sport Chek or Atmosphere, and you’ll be a true believer.

Whether a husband, a father or a friend, there’s at least one man on every gift list who’s impossible to buy for. Fortunately, there’s Revolucion. This Yaletown store looks small from the outside, but inside you’ll find gifts running the gamut from practical to fun. For the man who has everything, how about an elegant spinning globe by Mova, which is powered by ambient light and torque from the earth’s magnetic field—no batteries required. Or a clever RFID-blocking Secrid wallet, which also protects credit cards from bending. With gifts this creative, you might want to pick up an extra for yourself.